2014 Howell Mountain Merlot

Dark ruby in color with an almost opaque core leads to intense aromas of blackberry, wild plum and black tea. On the palate, the wine is full bodied with balanced acidity and integrated tannins. This Merlot is approachable now, but has the characteristics to develop and improve for decades.

"The 2014 Merlot, which is 100% Merlot, is actually one of the few truly great Merlots made in Napa Valley. This wine has terrific fruit intensity, big, deep, chocolate/mocha, black cherry and currant notes, and a large frame filled with extract, glycerin and juicy, chewy fruit. It is a sumptuous Merlot fruit bomb to drink over the next 10-15 years."

(94 Points) Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Merlot brings together the natural juiciness of the grape with the aromatics and structure that are typical of Howell Mountain. Inky blue/purplish fruit, spice, leather, tobacco and lavender are nicely delineated in a mid-weight, refreshing yet deep Merlot that will drink well with minimal cellaring. The Merlot is not especially complex, but it is absolutely delicious.".